Taiwan Pool Operates at Half Capacity Due to Lifeguard Shortage

The Shanhua public swimming pool in Tainan, Taiwan, has been forced to operate at only half capacity this season due to a critical shortage of lifeguards. The pool, which opened late in June due to the staffing issue, requires four certified lifeguards for full operation of its 50-meter, eight-lane facility. Currently, only two lifeguards are available, prompting officials to close off the deep-water section and the spa area.

To manage the limited capacity, the pool uses ropes and buoys to cordon off the restricted areas, with prominent red banners warning swimmers. The shallow end, suitable for those up to 130 centimeters tall, remains open, along with the children's and toddler pools. Swimmers in the open section must turn back at the 25-meter mark, halfway through the pool's length.

District chief Tan Nai-cheng expressed frustration over the situation, noting that the pool's equipment is over 20 years old and frequently draws public criticism. He explained that two of the original five permanent lifeguards left for higher-paying jobs in the tech industry, while another found work on a nearby farm. The district is actively seeking new hires to meet safety regulations and fully reopen the facility, but acknowledges that salary is a significant barrier, especially with the peak summer season imminent. Tan hopes for assistance from the city government to address the recruitment challenges.

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We will do our best to recruit, but the salary issue is very realistic, and the peak summer season is approaching. We hope the city government can help.